South Africa’s transport and logistics sector is expanding fast, and today you can secure a learnership that gives you practical skills and a pathway to a stable career – check out Open Learning Group’s programmes on Open Learning Group.
What the opportunity is
Open Learning Group offers a wide range of TETA‑linked learnerships, occupational qualifications and short learning programmes. The courses focus on logistics, freight, transport, retail and supply‑chain work. Most programmes combine classroom study with on‑the‑job training and run for about 12 months, but exact dates and funding differ from project to project.
Who can apply (eligibility)
These learnerships are open to:
- Young South Africans who are unemployed or looking for a career change
- Current employees who want a recognised qualification
- Anyone with the minimum school or tertiary qualification required for the specific course
Each qualification has its own entry criteria – for example, a Level 3 National Certificate may need a Grade 12 pass, while a Level 5 Supply Chain Practitioner may require a previous certificate or relevant work experience. Most programmes also need an employer, sponsoring organisation or direct funder to support the learner.
What you gain (benefits and skills)
On successful completion you receive a nationally recognised qualification and the chance to work in roles such as freight handler, transport clerk, clearing‑and‑forwarding agent, retail supervisor or road‑transport manager. The training covers practical skills that employers need every day, including:
- Receiving and dispatching goods
- Warehouse operations and inventory control
- Freight documentation and customs procedures
- Supply‑chain coordination and logistics planning
- Transport administration and road‑transport supervision
- Retail operations and wholesale distribution
- Occupational health and safety
- Clearing and forwarding processes
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Visit the official Open Learning Group Further Education and Training portal: https://olg.co.za/further-education-and-training/.
- Identify the qualification that matches your career goal and current education level.
- Check the specific entry requirements, required NQF level and whether workplace training is part of the programme.
- Find out if the intake is funded by an employer, a TETA‑supported project or another sponsor.
- Gather the necessary documents (ID, academic transcripts, proof of work experience if required, and a sponsor’s letter of support).
- Submit your application before the listed closing date for that particular intake.
- Follow up with the contact person provided to confirm receipt and ask about stipend or allowance details.
Tips to improve your chances
- Confirm the exact programme name, sponsor and funding source before sending personal documents.
- Make sure you meet the minimum NQF level and any work‑experience criteria.
- Ask the employer or sponsor about the learner allowance and whether it is paid monthly.
- Double‑check the training venue – some projects run at the learner’s workplace rather than the Houghton Estate campus.
- Apply early; many funded projects close quickly once the sponsor’s quota is filled.
- Keep a copy of your application and any correspondence for future reference.
Conclusion and next steps
Open Learning Group provides clear pathways into South Africa’s transport and logistics industry through recognised learnerships and short courses. Remember that a qualification listed on the catalogue is not automatically funded – you need an employer or sponsor, and each intake has its own deadline, stipend arrangement and location.
Start by reviewing the programmes that interest you, verify the funding and entry requirements, and then apply through the official portal. With the right preparation, you can secure a spot, gain valuable skills and move toward a rewarding career in logistics, freight handling or supply‑chain management.